Barnsley Resort in Adairsville has named Shaun Doty as Executive Chef for its upcoming restaurant, Jules. The new dinner-only venue is set to open in late summer and will feature a menu influenced by Southern traditions, Japanese techniques, and European styles. This addition marks the resort’s most significant culinary project to date, joining existing dining options such as Woodlands and the Biergarten.
The interior of Jules was designed by David Thompson Studio from Charleston and takes inspiration from Julia Barnsley, daughter of the estate’s original owner. The building itself dates back to 1854 when it was first constructed as a farmhouse in Rome, Georgia. It was moved to Barnsley Resort in 1994 and previously operated as Rice House restaurant after being updated with a commercial kitchen. For its new chapter as Jules, the space has undergone extensive renovations led by HDA Architects based in Rome.
Chef Doty will be involved with special appearances and events at Jules while collaborating closely with chef de cuisine David Doyle, who will manage daily kitchen operations.
The restaurant’s menu highlights regional ingredients sourced from the resort’s own farm, local gardens, and nearby Georgia suppliers. Dishes are expected to change seasonally with an emphasis on sustainability and adapting to ingredient availability. Doty also plans initiatives such as starting a fermentation program, implementing composting practices, and using menus printed on recycled paper or sustainable materials. These efforts are part of his goal to achieve a Michelin Green Star for environmental responsibility.
Doty brings more than thirty years of experience to this role. He is recognized for his work at Atlanta’s The Federal—a James Beard nominee for Best New Restaurant—and has opened several other Atlanta establishments including Shaun’s, Yeah Burger, and Bantam & Biddy. His early career included working under Chef Guenter Seeger at the former Ritz-Carlton Buckhead and training at Michelin-starred restaurants in France and Belgium.
The reopening of Jules comes amid broader renovations at Barnsley Resort led by South Street Partners. Recent upgrades include remodeling all free-standing cottages and guest rooms with design work by Charlotte Lucas Design from Charlotte.
